Sideswipe is the name of several different characters in the
Transformers universesThe Transformers are alien robots of a popular Hasbro toy line and its spin-offs.Transformers: G1, includes both the animated television series The Transformers and the Marvel Comics comic-book series of the same name, which is further divided into Japanese and British spin-offs, respectively...
. Because of trademark restrictions they sometimes use the spelling "Side Swipe."
Transformers: Generation 1
Sideswipe (
Lambor in
Japanis an island country in East Asia. Located in the Pacific Ocean, it lies to the east of the Sea of Japan, People's Republic of China, North Korea, South Korea and Russia, stretching from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea and Taiwan in the south...
,
Frérot in
FranceFrance , officially the French Republic , is a country located in Western Europe, with several overseas islands and territories located on other continents. Metropolitan France extends from the Mediterranean Sea to the English Channel and the North Sea, and from the Rhine to the Atlantic Ocean...
,
Freccia in
ItalyItaly , officially the Italian Republic , is a country located on the Italian Peninsula in Southern Europe and on the two largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily and Sardinia. Italy shares its northern, Alpine boundary with France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia...
) is described as a brave but often rash warrior. He is almost as skilled as his twin brother
SunstreakerSunstreaker is the name of several fictional characters from the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Sunstreaker was one of the first generation of Autobots in the original Transformers television series...
in combat, but is less ruthless. He enjoys a good fight, but his impetuousness can often lead to his being injured.
Marvel Comics
In the original
Marvel Transformers comics, Sideswipe's role was largely similar to that of the animated series, serving as a loyal warrior under Optimus Prime.
Sideswipe joined the list of the long-term injured during the
Dinobot Hunt. He was charged, along with
BluestreakSilverstreak is the name given to the Transformers character once known as Bluestreak, but for trademark reasons it had to be changed in 2003.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
and
HufferHuffer is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:The toy version of Huffer was released from 1984 through 1985 as a Mini-Bot, placing him in the same general size category as Bumblebee, Beachcomber and Powerglide...
, with bringing in the powerful Dinobot,
GrimlockGrimlock is the name of several fictional characters in the Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Grimlock is the most fearsome and powerful member of the Dinobots...
. Unfortunately, the party found the mentally ill Grimlock locked in vicious combat with
SludgeSludge is the name of several fictional characters in the Transformer toy line and fictional series.-Transformers: Generation 1:Sludge is the Brontosaurus Dinobot. Sludge's strength is considered by some to be second only to Grimlock's in the Dinobot faction...
, who had been planted there by the Decepticons. Sideswipe was seriously injured while trying to contain the situation, but managed at least to put out a distress call, alerting
ProwlProwl is the name of several fictional characters in the Transformers universes. After Optimus Prime and Megatron, and along with Mirage, Starscream, and Ironhide, "Prowl" is one of the most re-used American names in the assorted Transformers series, and its use has become almost syonymous with...
and Optimus Prime.
He appeared to avoid deactivation by the Underbase powered
StarscreamStarscream is the name of several fictional characters in the various series Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Due to his treachery and personality, he has had many future characters within the franchise to bear his name, most of which share his desire to become leader of the...
, he was not seen again after issue #50 of the US comic.
He appeared again in the Generation 2 comics as part of a raiding party under Grimlock that was outthought and captured by the forces of
JhiaxusJhiaxus is the name of several fictional characters in the Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 2:Unlike most of the notable characters in the Transformers comics, Jhiaxus is not based on a toy...
. He was freed by Prime, and later appeared battlng the
SwarmThe Swarm is a creature in the fictional world of the Transformers: Generation 2 comic by Marvel Comics.The Swarm is a large, amorphous, black mass of particulate sized, corrosive organisms that travel from planet to planet, seeking out cybernetic life forms. Upon contact with other life forms, the...
. His fate is unknown.
Animated series
Sideswipe was part of the initial crew of Autobots aboard the Ark when it crash-landed on Earth four million years ago. He awakened along with his fellow Transformers in 1984, with both he and his brother being reformatted into
LamborghiniAutomobili Lamborghini S.p.A., commonly referred to as Lamborghini , is an Italian automaker based in the small township of Sant'Agata Bolognese. The company was founded in 1963 by manufacturing magnate Ferruccio Lamborghini...
sports cars. Sideswipe loaned
Optimus PrimeOptimus Prime is a fictional character from the Transformers franchise. He is the main protagonist and leader of the "heroic" faction in most of the various Transformers continuities.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
the use of his rocket pack when the Decepticons nearly escaped from Earth with a starship full of energon.
Sideswipe and Sunstreaker often operated together. When antimatter-fueled Decepticons attacked the Ark on one occasion in the episode "Roll for It", Sideswipe and Sunstreaker took to the air to battle with the incoming seeker jets, in a rambunctious, if ultimately ineffective, display of "
jet judo."
When investigating tremors that were shaking the Autobot base,
WheeljackWheeljack is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Wheeljack is the scientist of the Autobots in the Transformers television and comic series based on the popular toy line produced by Takara and Hasbro...
's scanner found some interesting objects inside a rock wall. Sideswipe, using his piston-like arms, helped
BrawnBrawn is the name of several fictional characters from the various Transformers universes. Brawn is not to be confused with X-Brawn, a very similar character from Transformers: Robots in Disguise.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
removed the rock wall and found a cave full of dinosaur bones, the discovery of which would lead to the development of the
DinobotsThe Dinobots are several teams of characters in the fictional Transformers Universe. The groups are made up of several robots, each of whose alternate mode are those of dinosaurs or similar prehistoric animal. -Transformers: Generation One:...
.
Towards the end of 1985, Sideswipe was a semi-regular in the series, and is among the team of five Autobots who disguised themselves as the Stunticons. Penetrating the Decepticons' camp, the Autobots ran into trouble when the real Stunticons arrived, trying to prove their identities by forming Menasor. With a combination of
WindchargerWindcharger was one of the original toys in the Transformers line when Hasbro started producing them in 1984.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
's magnetic powers and
MirageMirage is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes. After Optimus Prime and Megatron, and along with Prowl, Mirage is one of the single most re-used names in the Transformers series, and is almost entirely synonymous with characters possessing Formula One...
's illusion-creating ability, the Autobots were able to appear as Menasor too, but the deception was soon revealed, though they were still able to thwart the Decepticons' plans.
In
The Transformers: The MovieThe Transformers: The Movie is a 1986 animated feature film based on the animated series of the same name. It was released in North America on August 8, 1986....
, the dead body of a robot many fans believe to be Sideswipe appears in the left corner of the frame as
SpringerSpringer is the name of several fictional characters from the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:He is a green Autobot Triple Changer who can transform into both a Cybertronian car and a helicopter. So named for the massive leaping power in his legs, Springer is one of...
attempts to move a torpedo launcher into place during the Battle of
Autobot CityAutobot City is the name of a city in the fictional Transformers universe.-Overview:Autobot City on Earth was a center of operations for the Autobots, and later the primary base following the destruction of the Ark. Large enough to house possibly hundreds of Transformers it had laboratories,...
. However, this is incorrect; the robot in question is actually
WheeljackWheeljack is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Wheeljack is the scientist of the Autobots in the Transformers television and comic series based on the popular toy line produced by Takara and Hasbro...
(whose body appears next to
WindchargerWindcharger was one of the original toys in the Transformers line when Hasbro started producing them in 1984.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
's a few seconds later into the scene), mistakenly colored like Sideswipe (The storyboards in this scene show Smokescreen's body and not Wheeljack's). In fact, Sideswipe does not appear at all in the movie, nor does he appear in any post-movie episodes of the
Transformers television series.
However, there was a scene planned where he, Red Alert and
TracksTracks is a character in the Transformers Universes. The name is now too generic to license in recent times; so the toys creator, Hasbro had to add a "modifier" - a prefix to the name in order to use it on their product, in this case the name became "Autobot Tracks".-Transformers: Generation...
hop off
Ultra MagnusUltra Magnus is the name of several fictional characters from the various Transformers universes. -Transformers: Generation 1:A commander could want no finer a soldier than Ultra Magnus...
to attack
DevastatorThe Constructicons are a group of fictional characters from the Transformers universe. They had the ability - unique at the time - to merge into a far larger robot—Devastator.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
, but they all flee and Red Alert is shot in the back and killed. Whether or not Sideswipe was intended to be killed himself is unknown.
Sideswipe appears in the first two episodes of the Japanese series
Transformers: Headmasters, participating with
Ultra MagnusUltra Magnus is the name of several fictional characters from the various Transformers universes. -Transformers: Generation 1:A commander could want no finer a soldier than Ultra Magnus...
, the
TrainbotsThe Trainbots are a team of six fictional robots who appeared in the Japanese series Transformers: The Headmasters.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
, and
ProwlProwl is the name of several fictional characters in the Transformers universes. After Optimus Prime and Megatron, and along with Mirage, Starscream, and Ironhide, "Prowl" is one of the most re-used American names in the assorted Transformers series, and its use has become almost syonymous with...
on a shootout against the Triple Changers,
SoundwaveSoundwave is the name of several fictional characters from the Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Soundwave is one of the most recognizable characters from the original Transformers line due to his unique alternate mode, a microcassette recorder, and his distinctive, monotone,...
and
SixshotSixshot is the name of two fictional characters from the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Sixshot is a murderous warrior who carries out his job with a fierce intensity...
. During a segment of this intense shootout, Sideswipe manages to hit
FrenzyFrenzy is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Frenzy is often partnered with Soundwave, along with other cassette Decepticons Ravage, Laserbeak and Buzzsaw. Because of his coloration on the original cartoon, he is sometimes...
and later, after foiling a new Decepticon assault, has also a line. So, Japanese transformers guides report that Sideswipe survived in someway the movie.
Books
Sideswipe appeared in the 1984 sticker and story book
Return to Cybertron written by
Suzanne WeynSuzanne Weyn is an American author, born in Flushing, New York on July 6, 1955. She primarily writes children's science fiction and fantasy novels. Though she has written over fifty novels and short stories, she is best known for The Bar Code Tattoo and Bar Code Rebellion...
and published by Marvel Books.
Sideswipe was featured in the 1985 Transformers audio book
Autobots' Lightning Strike.
Sideswipe appeared in the 1986 story and coloring book
The Lost Treasure of Cybertron by Marvel Books.
Dreamwave Productions
Before the civil war between the Autobots and the Decepticons, Sideswipe was a merchant. After the war broke out he joined the Autobots. When
Optimus PrimeOptimus Prime is a fictional character from the Transformers franchise. He is the main protagonist and leader of the "heroic" faction in most of the various Transformers continuities.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
disappeared in an accident with a space bridge, the Autobots splintered into smaller factions. Sideswipe stayed with the main Autobot force, now under the leadership of
ProwlProwl is the name of several fictional characters in the Transformers universes. After Optimus Prime and Megatron, and along with Mirage, Starscream, and Ironhide, "Prowl" is one of the most re-used American names in the assorted Transformers series, and its use has become almost syonymous with...
.
With the Autobots learned that the Decepticons were testing a new mobile command base at the Praetorus Wharf, Sideswipe was part of a small investigation team led by Prowl. They discovered the mobile command base to be
TrypticonTrypticon is a fictional character in the Transformers toyline.-Transformers: Generation 1:Trypticon is the Decepticons' principal command base. He has three modes: a city, a mobile battle station, and a Tyrannosaurus rex. In each mode, he has a variety of weapons...
and were forced to battle with little chance of success until the giant
DecepticonThe Decepticons are usually depicted as the Antagonists in the fictional universes of the Transformers toyline and related comics and cartoons, and the enemies of the Autobots. The villains take many forms, and have many different origins and stories across the numerous different Transformers...
was ordered to leave.
Some time after being reawakened on Earth four million years later, Sideswipe was aboard a ship named 'The Ark II' created by the Autobots and their human allies to end the war on Earth and return to Cybertron. However, the ship was sabotaged and exploded shortly after take-off. The human allies were killed, but Sideswipe and other Autobots were lost in the ocean. Sideswipe and the other lost Autobots were later found by Optimus Prime who used the Matrix to revive them. Sideswipe fought in the battle against the Decepticons in San Francisco, attacking
SoundwaveSoundwave is the name of several fictional characters from the Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Soundwave is one of the most recognizable characters from the original Transformers line due to his unique alternate mode, a microcassette recorder, and his distinctive, monotone,...
with Sunstreaker.
When
Ultra MagnusUltra Magnus is the name of several fictional characters from the various Transformers universes. -Transformers: Generation 1:A commander could want no finer a soldier than Ultra Magnus...
came to Earth claiming that the Earth-based Autobots were Cybertonian criminals; Optimus Prime surrendered and returned to Cybertron with half of his force. Sideswipe was amongst those ordered to stay behind, now under the command of
JazzJazz is the name of several fictional characters from the various Transformers universes. For trademark reasons, Jazz is sometimes referred to as Autobot Jazz or Meister, his Japanese name.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
.
Sideswipe and the other Autobots who remained on Earth were attacked by
StarscreamStarscream is the name of several fictional characters in the various series Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Due to his treachery and personality, he has had many future characters within the franchise to bear his name, most of which share his desire to become leader of the...
and
BruticusThe Combaticons are a group of Decepticon military vehicles in the assorted fictional universes of the Transformers.- Transformers: Generation 1 :...
. Sideswipe fell in this battle and was later repaired by the Earth Defense Command.
As part of a small group led by Jazz and
Marissa FairebornMarissa Faireborn is a fictional character from the Transformers series. A human female, she holds the rank of captain in the Earth Defense Command, a military organization helping the Autobots fight against the evil Decepticons...
of the Earth Defense Command to search for missing soldiers and solve the mystery of the deserted city, Sideswipe found and battled the Insecticons along with his twin brother Sunstreaker. After defeating the Insecticons, the Autobots rejoined the other Autobots and were led by Prowl to the site of the future Autobot City: Earth.
Devil's Due Publishing
In this reimagining of the Generation One story, the Ark was discovered by the terrorist Cobra organization, and all the Transformers inside were reformatted into Cobra vehicles remotely controlled by the Televipers. In this storyline Sideswipe and Sunstreaker both turned into Cobra Stingers.
DestroLaird James McCullen Destro XXIV, usually referred to simply as Destro, is a fictional villain from G.I. Joe, a military-themed line of toys from Hasbro. He first appeared in the G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero line. He is portrayed by Christopher Eccleston in the 2009 live-action film, G.I...
attempted to use them in a battle against G.I. Joe, but the two of them were temporarily put out of commission by
WheeljackWheeljack is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Wheeljack is the scientist of the Autobots in the Transformers television and comic series based on the popular toy line produced by Takara and Hasbro...
. They were later seen fighting the Decepticons on Cobra Island.
Sideswipe reappeared in the third crossover series as part of the combined Autobot/G.I. Joe force trying to rescue Optimus Prime. Sideswipe returned in the fourth crossover as part of a group led by
ProwlProwl is the name of several fictional characters in the Transformers universes. After Optimus Prime and Megatron, and along with Mirage, Starscream, and Ironhide, "Prowl" is one of the most re-used American names in the assorted Transformers series, and its use has become almost syonymous with...
working with former G.I. Joe leader Hawk to stop the spread of Cybertronian technology on Earth. After failing to apprehend Destro, the group relaxed on their ship - only to be attacked by the
Monster PretendersThe Monster Pretenders are a group of fictional Decepticons in the Transformers franchise. The team is the last of the traditional combiners from the original series and is one of three combiner teams to have six members .-Members:*Icepick: the team leader...
, with Sideswipe being incapacitated. He was later shown being repaired.
3H Enterprises
Sideswipe returned in the pages of the
BotConBotCon, briefly known as "The Official Transformers Collectors' Convention" , is an annual convention for Transformers fans and collectors. The convention has been held, in one form or another, annually since 1994...
exclusive
Transformers: UniverseTransformers: Universe is a line of toys consisting of repainted re-releases from various Transformers toy lines. The toyline has spawned several series of comics and other stories. In addition, Marvel Comics produced an unrelated mini-series called Transformers Universe...
comics. He was amongst the Autobot heroes of the Great War welcomed back to Cybertron. However, all of them were transported away by
UnicronUnicron is a fictional character from the Transformers universe and toyline. Created by Floro Dery, he was introduced in the 1986 animated film The Transformers: The Movie as the film's main antagonist...
. Reformatted into a new body, he was forced to fight for Unicron's amusement (and unbeknownst to all, so that the Spark energy from fallen combatants could revitalize his own shattered frame), Sideswipe duelled his own brother. All were subsequently freed by the resurrected
Optimus PrimalOptimus Primal is a fictional character from the Transformers toyline, and the leader of the Maximal forces and the main protagonist in the Beast Wars television series...
, and Sideswipe went on to serve him as part of the new Autobot faction.
Although Universe ended at issue #3, the flashback of Optimus Prime would reveal what happened. In the final battle between the forces of Optimus Primal and Unicron, the Chaos-Bringer had disappeared (due to the events of
Transformers: EnergonTransformers: Energon, known in Japan as , is the 2004-2005 Transformers toyline, animated series and comic book series, another co-production between Hasbro and Takara and a direct sequel to Transformers: Armada...
), with Primal's forces barely making it out. Sideswipe was among those seen escaping.
IDW Publishing
Sideswipe made his first
IDW PublishingIDW Publishing, also known as Idea + Design Works, LLC and IDW, is an American comic book company owned by IDT Corp.. The company was founded in 1999 and has been awarded the title "Publisher of the Year Under 5% Market Share" for the years 2004, 2005 and 2006 by Diamond Comic Distributors...
appaearance in the
Spotlight issue on
GalvatronGalvatron is the name of several fictional Transformers, most often the recreated version of Megatron, the Decepticon Supreme Commander.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
. Assigned to
HoundHound is the name of several fictional characters from the various Transformers universes. He is sometimes referred to as "Autobot Hound" for trademark purposes...
's unit on Cybertron guarding
ThunderwingThunderwing is the name of several fictional characters from the Transformers toyline.-Transformers: Generation 1:-Marvel Comics:Thunderwing had a prominent role in Marvel's Transformers comic book as a Decepticon warlord, first appearing in #60 of the US comic.Thunderwing had several appearances...
's body.
Chafing under Hound's command due to Sunstreaker going missing on Earth (in
The Transformers: EscalationThe Transformers: Escalation is a six-issue comic book mini-series, published by IDW Publishing, based on the Transformers and following on from The Transformers: Infiltration. The series launched in November 2006 and ended in April 2007....
), Sideswipe clashed with his superior, even going over his head to call
Optimus PrimeOptimus Prime is a fictional character from the Transformers franchise. He is the main protagonist and leader of the "heroic" faction in most of the various Transformers continuities.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
on Earth, being reprimanded as a result. However, the matter was rendered moot when the mysterious Galvatron appeared, killing
Leadfoot-Transformers: Generation 2:Leadfoot is a member of the Autobot Rotor Force. -Marvel Comics:Leadfoot appeared in the Marvel Generation 2 comics....
. An enraged Sideswipe blasted him, and was blasted aside as a result. While the rest of Hound's unit engaged Galvatron, Sideswipe recovered and blew apart Galvatron's head with a single full-powered shot. As Hound chastised him, the undead Galvatron recovered and rendered the whole unit unconscious with one blast, before leaving with Thunderwing.
Sideswipe and his unit were redeployed to Earth under Optimus Prime's orders in issue #1 of
The Transformers: DevastationThe Transformers: Devastation is a six-issue comic book miniseries, published by IDW Publishing, based on the Transformers and following on from The Transformers: Escalation. Issue 1 of Devastation was released on October 3, 2007, with issue 2 following on the 24th of October and was published...
, but were rediverted to Garrus-9 following the Decepticons' abduction of the
Monstructor componentsThe Monster Pretenders are a group of fictional Decepticons in the Transformers franchise. The team is the last of the traditional combiners from the original series and is one of three combiner teams to have six members .-Members:*Icepick: the team leader...
.
Sideswipe has appeared among the Autobots on Cybertron in
All Hail Megatron. He now appears to have a form based on the
Universe Classics Series Sideswipe toy.
Toys
- Generation 1 Deluxe Car Sideswipe (1984)
- Sideswipe's toy was originally part of a Takara
Takara Co., Ltd. was a Japanese toy company founded in 1955, that merged with another prominent Japanese toy company, Tomy Co., Ltd., on March 1, 2006.The company motto was 「遊びは文化」 which means "playing is culture."-Toys:...
toyline called DiacloneDiaclone was a toyline by Takara Toys launched in 1980. It consisted of transforming vehicles and robots piloted by miniature, magnet-shoed figures spun off from the prior Microman toy line that were in turn called an Inch-Man....
before HasbroHasbro is a U.S.-based, multinational toy and boardgame company. It is one of the largest toy makers in the world. The corporate headquarters is located in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, United States. The majority of its products, however, are manufactured overseas.-History:In 1923, two brothers—Henry...
took some of the toys to use for Transformers. Sideswipe was one of the first Transformers to be released. Because they were both Lamborghinis, Sideswipe and SunstreakerSunstreaker is the name of several fictional characters from the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Sunstreaker was one of the first generation of Autobots in the original Transformers television series...
were characterized as fraternal twins.
- Oddly, the Tech Specs and TF: Universe profiles for Sideswipe describe the Sunstreaker toy. The rocket backpack describes Sunstreaker's engine, which is on his upper back in robot mode, and the shoulder mounted flares refer to the two yellow pods that mount on Sunstreaker's shoulders. The mix-up may have been due to the Diaclone toy decos. The toy used for Sideswipe had three Diaclone versions: red, yellow, and police, while the Sunstreaker mold was released only in red and police decos. This might also explain the red stickers behind Sunstreaker's rear wheels.
- The mold used for the original Sideswipe also used for the first Generation 2 Sideswipe, and the Japanese-exclusive Autobots Tigertrack, Clampdown and Deep Cover. The Japanese variants are based on original variants used in the Diaclone line. The police car that became Clampdown was the basis for the fire escort Red Alert.
- Generation 1 Action Master Sideswipe with Vanguard (1991)
- As part of Europe's continuing exclusive Transformer toys, Sideswipe returned as an Action Master, along with his new partner - the battle droid Vanguard. Vanguard transformed into a backpack for Sideswipe to wear which came equipped with a protective double-barreled helmet.
- Generation 2 Autobot Car Sideswipe (1993)
- Slightly remolded and recolored black, Sideswipe was re-released in the Transformers: Generation Two toy line.
- Generation 2 Go-Bot Sideswipe (1995)
- Sideswipe was released a second time in Generation Two as a blue Lamborghini Diablo
Lamborghini Diablo is a high-performance mid-engined sports car built by Italian automaker Lamborghini between 1990 and 2001. It was the first Lamborghini capable of attaining a top speed in excess of...
, a recolor of an Autobot named Firecracker as part of the Go-Bots line. This toy was later recolored as Robots in Disguise R.E.V.
- Universe Spy Changer Sideswipe (unreleased)
- First announced in Previews magazine for December 2002 were a set of 5 Autobot Spy Changers - Wheeljack, Sideswipe, Trailbreaker, Prowl and Mirage.
- Smallest Transformers Lambor (2003)
- In Japan a miniature version of Sideswipe was released as part of the Smallest Transformers line. Later remolded into Smallest Alert
- Universe Deluxe Sideswipe (2003)
- After a long absence, the original Sideswipe returns with a new toy. This time it is a BotCon
BotCon, briefly known as "The Official Transformers Collectors' Convention" , is an annual convention for Transformers fans and collectors. The convention has been held, in one form or another, annually since 1994...
exclusive, a remold of the Robots in DisguiseRobots in Disguise are an English electro-punk band. The group is composed of Dee Plume , Sue Denim , and a rolling live line-up of backing musicians. Their current drummer is Gemma Hill, also known as Ann Droid...
toy Prowl. He came packaged with his now identical twin Sunstreaker. Both turned into Lamborghini DiabloLamborghini Diablo is a high-performance mid-engined sports car built by Italian automaker Lamborghini between 1990 and 2001. It was the first Lamborghini capable of attaining a top speed in excess of...
s.
- Alternators Sideswipe (2003)
- Side Swipe (with a space for trademark reasons) was the second Transformer to be released in the Alternators/Binaltech toyline by Hasbro
Hasbro is a U.S.-based, multinational toy and boardgame company. It is one of the largest toy makers in the world. The corporate headquarters is located in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, United States. The majority of its products, however, are manufactured overseas.-History:In 1923, two brothers—Henry...
/TakaraTakara Co., Ltd. was a Japanese toy company founded in 1955, that merged with another prominent Japanese toy company, Tomy Co., Ltd., on March 1, 2006.The company motto was 「遊びは文化」 which means "playing is culture."-Toys:...
. In the Binaltech line, Side Swipe is named Lambor, for simplicity's sake he is referred to as Side Swipe for this article. Side Swipe's alternate mode is a DodgeDodge is a United States-based brand of automobiles, minivans, sport utility vehicles, and pickup trucks, manufactured and marketed by Chrysler Group LLC in more than 60 different countries and territories worldwide....
Viper SRT-10.
- Side Swipe has been remolded as Dead End, and Sunstreaker
- Generation 1 Reissue Sideswipe (2005)
- The original Sideswipe toy was reissued in 2005. Originally planned to be a Toys R Us exclusive, the line was canceled before Sideswipe was released. With the toys having already been made, they were instead sold through Kaybee stores as a discount price.
- A three inch tall non-transforming toy based on his Alternators form.
- Universe Classic Series Deluxe Sideswipe (2008)
- Hasbro announced at BotCon 2007 that both Sideswipe and Sunstreaker would be released in 2008 as part of the Transformers: Universe Classic Series line as Deluxe sized toys. Sunstreaker is the considered the original toy, while Sideswipe is a remold and redeco of him with a new head and color deco, with the body being rotated from Sunstreaker's robot mode so the car's hood (on Sunstreaker's back) becomes Sideswipe's chest. Concept art of both was displayed by Hasbro at SDCC 2007.
Transformers: Robots in Disguise
As a release of an unused Generation 2 Go-Bots mold, the name Side Swipe is reused for the first time on an unrelated toy to the original. This toy did not receive any characterisation and did not appear in the show or any other fiction.
Toys
- Robots in Disguise Side Swipe (2001)
- This toy was later redecoed as Transformers: Universe Silverstreak
Silverstreak is the name given to the Transformers character once known as Bluestreak, but for trademark reasons it had to be changed in 2003.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
. He is a redeco of the unreleased Generation 2 Go-Bot RumbleRumble is a fictional character in the Transformers universes. In order to trademark the name, Hasbro referred to the Alternators character as Decepticon Rumble.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
.
Transformers: Armada
Originally called Stepper in the Japanese series "Micron Legend", he was renamed Side Swipe (with a space) when Hasbro released the series in America. Transforming into a blue Nissan Skyline, Sideswipe's alternate mode is as realistic as an Armada toy can get to an actual vehicle. However, his robot mode is considered by many to be very poorly designed and is the subject of much ridicule.
Note: Early packaging of Side Swipe spelled his name without a space, but it was later added. According to online posts by Hasbro employees there was a mixup in the naming of Side Swipe and Mini-Con
Nightbeat-Transformers: Generation 1:Nightbeat is described as a tough, street-hardened detective who is not above resorting to dirty tricks in order to further his investigations. His Headmaster partner is a detective named Muzzle.-Marvel Comics:...
, and the original intention was for them to have each other's name, making this toy a true homage to the original Nightbeat.
Animated series
Side Swipe first appeared in the Armada episode "Past"(Part 1) as a rookie in Optimus Prime's squad. He was rather ridiculous and awkward youth. In the animated series it was revealed that once he had been saved from Decepticon execution by
BlurrBlurr is the name given to five different fictional characters in the Transformers universes. He frequently appears as a blue Autobot who transforms into a swift car.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
, and had travelled to Earth to join him at last. But Blurr was not too glad to have such a subordinate. So, by Prime's consent, he charged
Hot Shot-Transformers: Robots in Disguise:In Transformers: Robots in Disguise, Hot Shot is the leader of the Spy Changer team.Hot Shot is the leader of the Spy Changers and has worked beside Optimus Prime for a long time. He comes across as rough and tough, but his hard exterior hides a caring, concerned...
to take care of Side Swipe. Initially Hot Shot was displeased very much that he had to fuss over such a misfit, but he did his best to train him, however. When Hot Shot's former friend
WheeljackWheeljack is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Wheeljack is the scientist of the Autobots in the Transformers television and comic series based on the popular toy line produced by Takara and Hasbro...
arrived and attacked him, Side Swipe tried to defend his trainer with all his strength. And when Side Swipe himself had been taken a prisoner by Wheeljack, Hot Shot immediately raced to his rescue. Though the conflagration threatened to consume them all, Hot Shot abandoned the fight to save Side Swipe, successfully getting him out just in time. After this Side Swipe hero-worshipped his new friend, much to Hot Shot's amusement, though the latter sometimes felt annoyed with such enthusiastic displays of friendship and even tried to get away from his admirer. Side Swipe always did everything to prove his fighting skill to everyone in practice, but he never had become a great warrior, however. Nevertheless, he proved to be a real boon for the Autobots because of his good understanding of the computers (for example, he succeeded in deciphering the secret access code of the Decepticon Base revealed by
StarscreamStarscream is the name of several fictional characters in the various series Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Due to his treachery and personality, he has had many future characters within the franchise to bear his name, most of which share his desire to become leader of the...
). Later, Side Swipe served as Hot Shot's most loyal soldier when that one briefly took command of the Autobots after
Optimus PrimeThe "Unicron Trilogy" version of Optimus Prime is a fictional character and the main protagonist of this branch of Transformers lore. Appearing in "Transformers: Armada", "Transformers: Energon" and "Transformers: Cybertron" , Optimus is the leader of the heroic Autobots...
's death.
Dreamwave Productions
Side Swipe also appeared in
DreamwaveDreamwave Productions is a Canadian art design studio and comic book publisher, best known for their multiple Transformers comic book series...
's
Transformers: Armada comic, with a much lesser role. He first appeared in issue #14. He was one of a team of Autobots under
JetfireJetfire is the name of several fictional characters from the Transformers universes. He is nearly always depicted as an Autobot with jet or space shuttle alternate mode.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
who investigated odd Space Bridge activity at the Decepticon HQ - unaware it had been taken over by the
Heralds of UnicronThe term Herald of Unicron is an unofficial term that refers to a Transformer that has served as a minion of the Transformers villain, Unicron. They have appeared in numerous series, and usually have great powers associated with them. They come in two forms, Transformers or other beings driven to...
.
BludgeonBludgeon is the name of several fictional characters in the Transformers universes. For trademark reasons, he is now marketed by Hasbro as Decepticon Bludgeon.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
was still present, and stalked Jetfire's team. Side Swipe survived relatively unscathed - unlike
BlurrBlurr is the name given to five different fictional characters in the Transformers universes. He frequently appears as a blue Autobot who transforms into a swift car.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
and
Dropshot-Transformers: Generation 1:Dropshot is always fighting, even when no one else is. He takes every opportunity to pick a fight, and is always the first guy to throw a punch . If the robot he’s fighting with doesn’t fight back, well, that’s fine with Dropshot. The way he looks at it, anyone who...
- and helped to eventually destroy the samurai Decepticon.
Side Swipe was last seen in issue #18 of the Armada series and did not make any appearances in the Transformers: Energon comic series.
Toys
- Armada Deluxe Sideswipe with Nightbeat (2003)
- Armada Side Swipe is a homage to Generation 1 Nightbeat, the character his Mini-Con is named after.
- Armada Side Swipe was remolded into Universe Treadshot
-Transformers: Generation 1:Treadshot is the name of a Decepticon Action Master gunslinger. He has a Targetmaster partner named Catgut.-Marvel Comics:...
, Universe Oil SlickOil Slick is the name of several fictional characters from the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Universe:Oil Slick's box featured a brief story about switching sides and hunting Crystal Widow....
and used in the Cybertron line as the Decepticon RunamuckRunamuck is the name of three fictional characters in the various Transformers universes.- Transformers: Generation 1 :Runamuck is the second Battlecharger, the first being Runabout.- Marvel Comics :Runabout and Runamuck first appeared in the U.S...
(Runabout in Japan).
PSP Version
Sideswipe is playable character. He transforms in to a sports car similar to a Lamborghini Murciélago.
Transformers: Timelines
This Sideswipe (again spelled without a space) is an alternate version of the Generation 1 character from the
BotConBotCon, briefly known as "The Official Transformers Collectors' Convention" , is an annual convention for Transformers fans and collectors. The convention has been held, in one form or another, annually since 1994...
exclusive "Shattered Glass" comic, in which the Decepticons are on the side of good and the Autobots on the side of evil.
Although initially an evil Autobot, Sideswipe was betrayed by Optimus Prime - who killed Sideswipe's mentor Drench. Sideswipe repainted himself in Drench's colors and joined the Decepticons to get revenge on Optimus. He was partnered with the Decepticon Micromaster Whisper, who he refers to as his "Mini-Con."
Fun Publications
Sideswipe appears as a member of Megatron's forces in the Transformers: Timelines
story "Shattered Glass" by Fun Publications. He befriends a lost Autobot named CliffjumperCliffjumper is the name of several characters from the Transformers line of toys. His name is usually associated with an Autobot who's toys are almost always red repaints of Bumblebee toys.- Transformers: Generation 1 :...
, a traveler from another dimension where the Autobots are heroic, and helps the Decepticons in the attack on the Ark launch site.
Sideswipe appears in the fiction Dungeons & Dinobots, a text based story. He defends the Arch-Ayr fuel dump from an Autobot attack. He later helps capture the Dinobots
SlugfestSlugfest is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Slugfest is one of the cassette minions of Soundwave. He is slow and stupid. He is armed with two solar powered vibro cannons...
and
GoryuGoryu is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Goyyu is the leader of the Dinoforce...
for the Decepticons. Cliffjumper and Sideswipe then track Grimlock to an ancient crypt which ends up being the home of the life-creating computer known as the Omega Terminus. They are joined by the Autobots Rodimus and Blurr, who are also hunting Grimlock. The enemies end up banning together to fight Grimlock, the Terminus and a host of zombie transformers, including Drench and this world's Cliffjumper. They escape, but their memories of the event are suppressed by the Terminus.
In Do Over
Sideswipe was present when Megatron announces the impending of lanch of the Nemesis, designed to stop the Autobot warship called the Ark.
Toys
Deluxe Sideswipe with Whisper (2008)
- Sideswipe is a redeco of Armada Wheeljack
Wheeljack is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Wheeljack is the scientist of the Autobots in the Transformers television and comic series based on the popular toy line produced by Takara and Hasbro...
with the colors of Generation 2 Drench. He came packaged with the Decepticon Mini-Con/Micromaster Whisper. This toy was inspired by a canceled Universe Drench toy Hasbro only produced as a prototype.
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
Sideswipe appears in the 2009 film,
Transformers: Revenge of the FallenTransformers: Revenge of the Fallen is an American science fiction action film released on June 19, 2009 in the United Kingdom and June 24, 2009 in North America, and was released on DVD and Blu-Ray on October 20, 2009. It is the sequel to 2007's Transformers and the second film in the live action...
. He transforms into a Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Concept, and has two wheeled feet like
BonecrusherBonecrusher is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Bonecrusher is a member of the Constructicons. He is brawler by nature and specialises in demolitions work...
in the first film. He is armed with two retractable arm blades in robot mode along with a double barreled Machine Gun on each of his wrists. Early concept art of Sideswipe protrayed him as being red, but he would end up silver.
His Hasbro battle bio states that he is 15 ft. tall and that he's a master in almost every form of martial arts on Cybertron.
IDW Publishing
Sideswipe first appeared in
Transformers: Alliance #4 as one of the Autobots who responded to
Optimus PrimeOptimus Prime is a fictional character from the Transformers franchise. He is the main protagonist and leader of the "heroic" faction in most of the various Transformers continuities.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
's call to Earth. He joined with Optimus' team as part of NEST.
Movie plot
left
Sideswipe joins late in the chase in
ShanghaiShanghai is the largest city in China, and one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world, with over 20 million people. Located on China's central eastern coast at the mouth of the Yangtze River, the city is administered as a municipality of the People's Republic of China with province-level...
, China chasing after the Decepticon
SidewaysSideways is the name of several fictional characters from various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Armada:Sideways is a gleeful troublemaker, for whom chaos is its own reward. His every action misleads and deceives, be it for his own twisted amusement, or for whatever deeper agenda he may be...
. As Sideswipe pursues Sideways, Sideswipe somersaults over him then launching one of his arm blades into the front of Sideways' vehicle mode. As he lands, Sideswipe reattaches the blade (which is still embedded in Sideways) and forces it lengthwise down Sideways' body, cutting him in half, killing him instantly. He is also seen in the fight against the Decepticons after
Optimus PrimeAs the Transformers franchise has grown, more continuities separate from the original series and its subsidiaries have come into existence, many featuring Optimus Primes of their own.-Transformers: Robots in Disguise:...
is killed by
MegatronAs the Transformers franchise has grown, more continuities separate from the original series and its subsidiaries have come into existence, each featuring their own unique version of the Decepticon leader Megatron.- Beast Era :...
as
BumblebeeAs the Transformers franchise has grown, other characters have appeared with the name Bumblebee.- Transformers: Armada :The Armada character Perceptor is named Bumble in Japan. The Mini-Con Sparkplug is also a physical homage to the original Bumblebee.- Transformers: Energon :Bumblebee's likeness...
and the twins escape with Sam. Sideswipe makes his way to Egypt with the other Autobots alongside
RatchetRatchet is the name of several characters in the Transformers universes. According to the original creator of the Transformers names, Bob Budiansky, Ratchet was named after the character of Nurse Ratched from the film One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. The name Ratchet is almost always portrayed as...
,
IronhideIronhide is the name of several different fictional characters in the Transformers universes. According to the original creator of the Transformers names, Bob Budiansky, Ironhide was named after the television series Ironside.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
, Bumblebee, and the body of Optimus Prime to engage the incoming Decepticons, before being brushed aside by
FallenThe Fallen is a fictional character in the Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Although the Fallen's origins are only suggested in his comic book appearance, they would be fully explained in Dorling Kindersley's Transformers: The Ultimate Guide...
when he teleports in front of them. Throughout the rest of the film, he is seen firing at incoming Decepticons along with the humans and other Autobots.
Video game
He will be part of the downloadable pack for summer 2009 August on
Xbox 360The Xbox 360 is the second video game console produced by Microsoft, and the successor to the Xbox. The Xbox 360 competes with Sony's PlayStation 3 and Nintendo's Wii as part of the seventh generation of video game consoles....
,and
Playstation 3The PlayStation 3 is the third home video game console produced by Sony Computer Entertainment, and the successor to the PlayStation 2 as part of the PlayStation series...
. He is also a playable character in the PSP version and the Autobot Nintendo DS version, which is during Challenge Modes only.
Toys
- Revenge of the Fallen Legends Sideswipe (2009)
- A new mold of Sideswipe. Also redecoed in red as Swerve
Swerve is the name given to several fictional characters in the Transformers universes. Swerve is always depicted as an Autobot land vehicle with red color...
.
- This toy was later packaged with Autobot Legends Mudflap and Decepticon Deluxe Fearswoop
Fearswoop is the name of several fictional characters from the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:Fearswoop is cunning and completely evil.-Toys:*Generation 1 Trakkon Fearswoop...
in a special Walmart exclusive 3 pack.
- Revenge of the Fallen Gravity Bots Sideswipe (2009)
- A new toy made for younger children. Instantly transforms to robot when tilted upwards.
- Revenge of the Fallen RPMs Battle Chargers Sideswipe (2009)
- A toy car made for younger children. Features pull-back action and sound effects. The top section pops open to reveal the robot mode when the car hits an object.
- Revenge of the Fallen Fast Action Battlers Sideswipe (2009)
- A new mold of Sideswipe with easy transformation for younger children.
- Revenge of the Fallen Deluxe Sideswipe (2009)
- A Deluxe-sized figure that transforms from Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Concept to Robot and features retractable blades.
- The figure was remolded with a new head and a red redeco as Swerve.
- Revenge of the Fallen Human Alliance Sideswipe (2009)
- A fully-detailed figure that comes with a 2" poseable Sgt. Robert Epps figure. Includes opening doors and special human battle stations in robot mode.
External links